Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has initiated a review of existing statutory provisionsand is considering the need for a new legal framework to regulate harmful content on digital platforms, following the controversy surrounding YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and other content creators.
In response to the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, the I&B Ministry stated that while some provisions already exist under current laws, there is growing demand for a stricter and more effective regulatory mechanism.
“We have taken note of these developments and are currently examining the existing statutory provisions as well as the need for a new legal framework to regulate such content,” the ministry informed the parliamentary panel.
The ministry further noted a rising concern in society that freedom of expression is being misused to showcase obscene and violent content on digital platforms. A detailed note will be submitted after further deliberations.
Parliamentary Panel Seeks Amendments to Regulate Digital Content
On February 13, the parliamentary committee, chaired by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, sought the ministry’s views on potential amendments in existing laws to curb controversial content, considering the rise of new technology and media platforms.
The demand for stronger regulations comes after widespread criticism of Ranveer Allahbadia’s comments on a YouTube show, sparking concerns across political lines.
Unlike traditional print and electronic media, which are governed by specific legal frameworks, new-age OTT platforms and digital media services currently lack dedicated content regulation laws. This has fueled demands for stricter oversight of digital content.
The Centre’s proposal to examine and possibly introduce a new regulatory framework signals significant changes in the way digital content and online platforms will be governed in the near future.
